New Sigma DP2

So Sigma have also announced a new Foveon based Compact Digital camera – the Sigma DP2. Now if you have just bought the Sigma DP1 dont worry, they have not replaced the DP1, the DP2 is just another model in the range featuring a longer 24.2mm f/2.8 lens – equivalent to 41mm on a 35mm SLR camera – where as the DP1 had an equivalent 28mm f/4 lens on 35mm SLR.

Sigma introduced the DP1 with a direct image sensor as used in the Sigma SD14 digital SLR to the market in March 2008 as a “unique, groundbreaking, compact digital camera with all the power of a digital SLR”. The multi award winning DP1 has established strong support from a wide range of photographers both amateur and professional. Building on this success, the DP2 is equipped with a 24.2mm F2.8 lens, equivalent to 41mm on a 35mm SLR camera, for increasing creative possibilities and superior image quality, improving handling and performance.

This product is showcased at Photokina 2008 in Koln, Germany.

Main features

SLR-sized image sensor

The size of the image sensor used in the DP2 camera is 20.7mm x 13.8mm. It is approximately seven to twelve times larger than the 1/1.8inch to 1/2.5inch image sensors used in ordinary compact digital cameras. The pixel size of the image sensor is 7.8μm. The large photodiodes deployed at a large pixel pitch capture pure, rich light efficiently and give the DP2 its high resolution and richly-graduated tones.

Full-color image sensor

The DP2 uses the same 14 megapixel (2,652×1,768×3 layers) direct image sensor as the SD14 and DP1. Utilizing the special features of silicon, which is penetrated to different depths by different wavelengths of light, this direct image sensor succeeds in full-color capture with the full RGB in a single-pixel location. Since the moiré is not generated, use of a low-pass filter is not needed because full information of light and color can be captured with three-dimensional feeling.

“TRUE II” image processing engine

The DP2 incorporates “TRUE II” which is an improved version of “TRUE” (Three-layer Responsive Ultimate Engine), the world’s first image processing engine suited for the three silicon embedded layer direct image sensor. The unique image-processing algorithm, which has been developed throughout the development of the SD series digital SLR cameras and DP1, is incorporated into “TRUE II”.

24.2mm F2.8 lens designed exclusively for the DP2

The DP2 is equipped with a 24.2mm F2.8 lens, equivalent to 41mm on a 35mm SLR camera, which has been designed exclusively for DP2. Two molded glass aspherical lenses provide superior image quality. The Super Multi Layer Coating reduces flare and ghosting. This lens and SLR-sized image sensor combination provides natural shallow depth-of-field and attractive bokeh effect.

RAW format recording

The DP2 includes a RAW recording mode for retaining full image capture detail of the utmost quality plus a JPEG recording format for convenience. The RAW data format uses lossless compression for more compact, yet uncompromised, data files. The RAW data format of the DP2 keeps brightness and color data in a 1:1 ratio without relying on interpolation. Each pixel location captures the full color of RGB data which, when processed in Sigma Photo Pro, will preserve the balance of the natural data for the best photos with the best image quality.

Exclusive Sigma Photo Pro Software (Supplied with the DP2)

The DP2 comes complete with SIGMA Photo Pro software, a RAW image developer that converts all RAW data quickly and easily. djustments can be made in three separate modes. The X3F Mode stores the original settings of the image at the point of capture. In the Auto Adjustment Mode, the software analyzes and automatically makes adjustments to the RAW data. The Custom Mode allows the photographer to make individual adjustments. The photographer can make changes easily and quickly by simply adjusting the slider controls within the software.

Compact and lightweight body

The DP2 has compact dimensions of 113.3mm/4.5in(W)x59.5mm/2.3in(H)x54.6mm/2.1in(D). Its compact body and lightweight design makes it easy to carry everywhere.

Three metering modes and four exposure modes

The DP2 has three metering modes, Evaluative Metering, Center Weighted Average Metering and Spot Metering. It is also possible to select the exposure mode from Program AE, Shutter Priority AE, Aperture Priority AE or Manual. Exposure compensation can be set in 1/3 stop increments from +3.0 to -3.0 stops and an auto bracketing function is also available.

Pop up (manual) built-in flash

The DP2 is equipped with a pop up (manual) built-in flash. It is possible to use Normal Flash, Red-Eye Reduction Flash and Slow Synchro Mode. It also features flash exposure compensation in 1/3 stops increments.

Manual Focus

Manual Focus is available for use when autofocus or focus lock is not effective. It is also possible to magnify the display to ensure precise focusing.

Large 2.5″ TFT Color LCD Monitor

The DP2 camera features large 2.5 inch TFT color LCD monitor. The LCD monitor displays 100% of the images, allowing the photographer to easily and accurately confirm the image compensation.

Hot Shoe

The DP2 camera is equipped with a hot shoe, allowing use of the dedicated external flashgun EF-140 DG (optional) as well as Sigma electronic flashguns for SD series such as EF-500 DG and EF-530 DG. This hot shoe is also used to attach high performance view finder VF-21 (optional).
* EF-500 DG and EF-530 DG flashgun series can be used in manual mode only.

Dedicated lens hood (HA-21)

It is possible to attach the dedicated lens hood to block out extraneous light. It also functions as an adapter, designed to accept the 46mm Close-up Lens and 46mm filters.
* A hood adapter HA-21 is sold separately

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